About Leys Estate
The only constant is change and we are entering a period of transformation in the countryside.
Leys Estate is the historical home of the Burnett family and has been within the ownership of the family since 1323. Although there has been continuity of land ownership over the 700 year period, the size of the estate has reduced substantially over the period, although the main core has remained largely intact. The most recent reduction in size was with the gift of Crathes Castle and surrounding policies to the National Trust for Scotland in 1952.
Leys Estate lies to the north-east of the town of Banchory nestled between the River Dee and the southern slopes of the Hill of Fare and is approximately 25km west of Aberdeen.
As we mark the 700th anniversary of the Burnett family residing in Deeside, we have developed a clear action plan for 2023-2028 with a fresh set of strategic objectives focusing on growth, capital re-investment and strategic land planning but aligning with new sustainability, biodiversity and environmental principles.
You can view our strategic plan here – Leys Estate Group Strategic Plan 2023 – 2028
What is Leys Estate?
The estate covers around 7,500 acres of mixed-use land and provides:
- 5,250 acres of mixed agricultural land to 16 agricultural tenants and one in-hand farm
- woodland management over 1,400 acres of mixed-use forestry (both commercial and non-commercial) and enabling recreational activities
- land for community projects, activities, commercial enterprises and residential developments
- land and buildings for over 130 commercial leases for a wide variety of independent local businesses
- 80 residential properties offering long and short term lets on affordable and market rents
As well as . . .
- 9 hole golf course, floodlit driving range with Toptracer Range Technology, café and self-catering holiday villas
- opportunities for food, drink and tourism enterprises and investment in the local area
- sustainable biomass energy to over 200 households and commercial businesses
- traditional estate activities such as shooting, stalking and fishing
- protection and enhancement of the heritage, environment and conservation values of local sites and educating the future